The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce and their Partners in Education, Cayman Free Press, Chevrolet, CLICO Cayman, Dart Cayman Islands and Walkers recently presented the recipients of the 2nd Annual Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching with prizes valued at $17,500.

During the televised Awards Ceremony on June 20th each recipient was presented with a crystal and mahogany Honouree Award, the impressive gold and crystal Golden Apple Award, and a gift bag courtesy of the Department of Tourism. In addition, each recipient has received a cash prize valued at $2,500. Funding for these prizes were generously donated by Golden Apple Gift Sponsors Caledonian, Horizon 21, Scotiabank and
the Water Authority,

“The Chamber realizes that educating the children in our community is not just a job it is a calling, one that these fine educators have answered, sparking excitement and love of learning in our children. It is clear that the success of our students and the quality of our schools relay on the skills of teachers such as these. It is indeed my pleasure to present each recipient with this cash prize. The remaining funds raised through
this programme have been placed in a special account to begin a teacher scholarship programme. Within the next three years, with the continuing support of our Partners in Education and the wider community, our teachers will be able to apply for scholarships to enhance their teaching skills and knowledge” said Chamber President James Tibbetts.

The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching, is an annual awards programme organized by the Chamber of Commerce, for teachers and principals of the Cayman Islands. Beginning in 2007, the programme has maintained significant corporate support from the Chamber’s Partners in Education, Cayman Free Press, Chevrolet, CLICO Cayman, Dart Cayman Islands and Walkers. In 2008, the Lifetime Achievement Award in Education, sponsored
by Maples and Calder, was introduced and presented to past East End School Principal and former Chief Education Officer, Mrs. Islay Conolly, MBE.

Nominations for the 2009 Golden Apple Awards and Lifetime Achievement Award will begin in November. The community is advised to keep informed about the nominations processes and dates through the media or by visiting www.caymanchamber.ky.